Divider and method for separating contents of a frozen liquid container

ABSTRACT

There are several types of existing ice cream containers and the present invention represents improvement to the existing configuration of carton containers to enable the manufacture and packaging of two or more flavors of ice cream type products in one container. Ice cream is generally sold in 1 pint (16 ounce), cylindrical cartons some of which have a somewhat flat bottom, and a gently tapering conical side wall. Larger capacity containers such as 48 oz. round cardboard, 48 oz. round plastic 48 oz. tubs, 1.75 quart and  ½  gal/two quarts containers are also commonly used. This invention provides a cardboard or plastic divider panel that is incorporated into any existing cartons that enables any size container to be divided into two or three flavor compartments depending on its size.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. provisionalapplication No. 62/258,862, filed Nov. 23, 2015, the contents of whichare herein incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to cartons and, more particularly, topackaging semi-fluid material which can be hardened by freezing, such asice cream, sherbet, yogurt, other ice cream type products and the like.

Ice cream is often supplied in cylindrical containers, particularly inlarger sizes, such as gallons and larger. It may also be supplied incylindrical containers of smaller measure than a gallon and inrectangular, cubic containers.

The ice cream container divider of the present invention came fromobserved deficiencies in the state of container art in satisfyingseveral needs. First there are children who prefer different flavors ofice cream and parents who many times, for whatever reason, may belimited to the purchase of only one flavor. There are children who arevery particular in not wanting their favorite flavor of ice cream toeven touch another flavor of ice cream in the same container. Then evengeneral consumer purchasers sometime need to satisfy two or moreseparate tastes in the same purchase or are unable to decide betweenflavors that will satisfy even an individual.

This application relates to an improved ice cream package for use inthis process. One popular form of conventional packing containersuitable for dairy products, such as ice cream, sherbet, yogurt, otherice cream and the like consists of a conical circumferential wall.Conventional packaging lines are flavor specific. Because retail storesdemand such variety of flavors and packages for those flavors, a largeinventory must be kept on hand. Retailers now demand a variety of icecream products including a variety of flavors. The consumer too islimited by current ice cream manufacturing and packaging techniques.

From the foregoing, it is clear that a need exists in the art for animproved container. Accordingly, as an object of the present inventionto provide an addition to existing carton designs whereby this additionto present carton designs obviates the foregoing drawbacks and providesa technique for subdividing a container into several compartments sothat the contents of one container can be divided and separated into twoor more flavors with neither flavor touching the other.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect of the present invention, a container for a semi-fluidmaterial which can be hardened by freezing, includes a generallycylindrical sidewall, defining a top opening and a bottom opening, thesidewall diverging outwardly between the bottom opening and the topopening; a bottom joined to a lower portion of the generally cylindricalsidewall to seal the bottom opening; a divider interposed substantiallyvertically between opposed sides of the generally cylindrical sidewallof the container, the divider sealingly attached to the opposed sidesand the bottom, defining a first compart and a second compartment forcontainment of the semi-fluid material. In some embodiments, thecylindrical sidewall is rectangular.

According to some aspects of the invention, the divider has a firstflange formed along a lower edge of the divider; a second flange formedalong a vertical edge of the divider. The first flange is adhered to aninner surface of the bottom and the second flange is adhered to an innersurface of the sidewall. The first flange and the second flange may beadhered to the container with an adhesive, preferably a food gradeadhesive. Alternatively, the first flange and the second flange may beadhered to the container with a weld.

In other embodiments, the divider may further include a first score linedefined spaced apart from the lower edge of the divider, wherein thefirst flange is formed by a fold of the lower edge of the divider alongthe first score line. A second score line defined inwardly spaced fromthe vertical edge of the divider, wherein the second flange is formed bya fold of the vertical edge of the divider along the second score line.An opposed second flange may also extend from opposite sides of thedivider. A plurality of dividers may be adhered in a spaced apartrelation along an interior length of the container to define more thantwo compartments. The container may also include a lid to close the topopening.

According to other aspects of the invention, a method of containing aplurality of semi-fluid materials which can be hardened by freezing,includes providing a container having a generally cylindrical sidewall,defining a top opening and a bottom opening. The sidewall divergesoutwardly between the bottom opening and the top opening. A bottom isjoined to a lower portion of the generally cylindrical sidewall to sealthe bottom opening. A divider is interposed substantially verticallybetween opposed sides of the generally cylindrical sidewall, with thedivider sealingly attached to the opposed sides and the bottom, defininga first compart and a second compartment for containment of thesemi-fluid material.

The method may further include filling the first compartment with afirst semi-fluid material. Filling the second compartment with a secondsemi-fluid material. Once the compartment is filled, freezing the firstand the second semi-fluid materials. The method may also includeapplying a lid to close the top opening. In certain preferredapplications of the method, the first semi-fluid material is a first icecream flavor and the second semi-fluid material is a second ice creamflavor.

According to other aspects of the invention, the method may also includeadhering a plurality of dividers in a spaced apart relation to define aplurality of compartments. Each of the plurality of compartments may befilled with a dissimilar semi-fluid material.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the presentinvention will become better understood with reference to the followingdrawings, description and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top view of the present invention when incorporated into thecylindrically tapering shaped ice cream carton.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the present invention when incorporated intocylindrically tapering shaped ice cream cartons.

FIG. 3 is a front 2-dimensional view of my present invention before itsincorporation into an ice cream container.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the present invention, as a singlepiece cardboard or plastic divider of the same material as thecontainer, with scoring along two lateral and bottom edges to facilitatefolding on the sides and bottom edge to create flanges on both ends andon the bottom. Bottom flange is adhered to bottom of carton. Sideflanges are adhered to sides of carton opposite each other.

FIG. 5 is a top view of the present invention when incorporated into acylindrically shaped ice cream carton.

FIG. 6 is a side view of the present invention when incorporated intocylindrically shaped ice cream carton.

FIG. 7 is a top view of the present invention when incorporated into arectangular shaped ice cream carton.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the present invention when incorporated into arectangular shaped ice cream carton.

FIG. 9 is a side view of the present invention when incorporated into arectangular shaped ice cream carton with tapered sides.

FIG. 10 is a top view of the present invention when incorporated into arectangular shaped ice cream carton, with tapered sides and oval top orrounded corners.

FIG. 11 is a side view utilizing two of the present invention, creatingcompartments for three separate flavors of product, incorporated into arectangular shaped ice cream carton with tapered sides.

FIG. 12 is a top view showing two of the present invention, creatingcompartments for three separate flavors of product, incorporated into arectangular shaped ice cream carton, with tapered sides and roundedcorners.

FIG. 13 is a top view showing two of the present invention, creatingcompartments for three separate flavors of product, incorporated into arectangular shaped ice cream carton.

FIG. 14 is a side view showing two of the present invention, creatingcompartments for three separate flavors of product incorporated into arectangular shaped ice cream carton.

FIG. 15 is a top view of the present invention incorporated into thecylindrically tapering shaped ice cream carton.

FIG. 16 is a side view of the present invention incorporated intocylindrically tapering shaped ice cream cartons.

FIG. 17 is a front 2-dimensional view of the present invention beforeits incorporation into an ice cream container.

FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of the present invention, as a singlepiece cardboard or plastic divider of the same material as thecontainer, with scoring along two lateral and top and bottom edges tofacilitate folding on the sides and bottom edges to create flanges onboth ends and on the bottom. Bottom flanges are adhered to bottom ofcarton. Side flanges are adhered to sides of carton opposite each other.

FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of the present invention, with itsincorporation into an ice cream container. Side flanges are adhered tosides of carton opposite each other.

FIG. 20 is a top view of the present invention incorporated into acylindrically shaped ice cream carton.

FIG. 21 is a side view of the present invention incorporated intocylindrically shaped ice cream cartons.

FIG. 22 is a top view of the present invention incorporated into arectangular shaped ice cream.

FIG. 23 is a side view of the present invention incorporated into arectangular shaped ice cream.

FIG. 24 is a side view of the present invention incorporated into arectangular shaped ice cream carton, with tapered sides and oval top orrounded corners.

FIG. 25 is a top view of the present invention incorporated into arectangular shaped ice cream carton, with tapered sides and roundedcorners.

FIG. 26 is a side view utilizing two of the present invention, creatingcompartments for three separate flavors of product, incorporated into arectangular shaped ice cream carton, with tapered sides and oval top orrounded corners.

FIG. 27 is a top view showing two of the present invention, creatingcompartments for three separate flavors of product incorporated into arectangular shaped ice cream carton, with tapered sides and oval top orrounded corners.

FIG. 28 is a top view showing two of the present invention, creatingcompartments for three separate flavors of product incorporated into arectangular shaped ice cream.

FIG. 29 is a side view showing two of the present invention, creatingcompartments for three separate flavors of product incorporated into arectangular shaped ice cream.

FIG. 30 is a view of an ice cream carton for ice cream.

FIG. 31 is a view of the present invention before assembly to be used inthe manufacturing and packaging of two separated flavors of ice cream.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the present invention when folding andprepared for adhering into a cylindrically shaped ice cream carton forice cream.

FIG. 33 is a top view of the present invention incorporated into thecylindrically tapering shaped ice cream.

FIG. 34 is a side view of the present invention when assembled into acylindrically shaped ice cream.

FIG. 35 is a 2-dimensional view of an ice cream carton for ice creambefore assembly.

FIG. 36 is a view of the present invention before assembly to be used inthe manufacturing and packaging of two separated flavors of ice cream.

FIG. 37 is a top view of the present invention incorporated into thecylindrically shaped ice cream.

FIG. 38 is a side view of the present invention when assembled into acylindrically shaped ice cream.

FIG. 39 is a front 2-dimensional view of my present invention, a singlepiece plastic divider or of the same material as the container, beforeits incorporation into an ice cream container.

FIG. 40 shows a perspective view of the present invention, as a singlepiece plastic divider or of the same material as the container, withscoring along two lateral and bottom edges to facilitate folding on thesides and bottom edge to create flanges on both ends and on the bottom.Bottom flange is adhered to bottom of carton. Side flanges are adheredto sides of carton opposite each other.

FIG. 41 is a top view of the present invention incorporated into thecylindrically tapering shaped plastic tub ice cream.

FIG. 42 is a perspective view of the present invention incorporated intocylindrically tapering shaped plastic tub ice cream cartons.

FIG. 43 is a top view of the present invention incorporated into thecylindrically tapering shaped plastic tub ice cream.

FIG. 44 shows a perspective view of the present invention, as a formedplastic divider of the same material as the container, with flanges oneach of three panels that are fused to the interior surface of plasticcontainers and flanges on the bottom of each panel that are similarlyfused to the bottom of the container.

FIG. 45 is a 2-dimensional view of an ice cream carton for ice creambefore assembly.

FIG. 46 is a top view of the present invention incorporated into therectangular shaped ice cream.

FIG. 47 is a side view of the present invention when assembled into arectangular shaped ice cream.

FIG. 48 is a 2-dimensional view of an ice cream carton for ice creambefore assembly.

FIG. 49 is a top view of the present invention incorporated into therectangular shaped ice cream.

FIG. 50 is a side view of the present invention when assembled into arectangular shaped ice cream.

FIG. 51 is a side view of the present invention when incorporated intoan oval shaped ice cream carton with tapered sides.

FIG. 52 is a top view of the present invention when incorporated into anoval shaped ice cream carton viewed from the top, with tapered sides andoval shaped top.

FIG. 53 is a side view of the present invention incorporated into an icecream carton, with tapered sides and an oval top.

FIG. 54 is a top view of the present invention incorporated into an ovalshaped ice cream carton viewed from the top, with tapered sides and ovalshaped top.

FIG. 55 is a side view utilizing two of the present invention, creatingcompartments for three separate flavors of product, incorporated into anoval shaped ice cream carton with tapered sides.

FIG. 56 is a top view showing two of the present invention, creatingcompartments for three separate flavors of product, incorporated into anoval shaped ice cream carton with tapered sides.

FIG. 57 is a side view utilizing two of the present invention, creatingcompartments for three separate flavors of product, incorporated into anoval shaped ice cream carton with tapered sides.

FIG. 58 is a top view showing two of the present invention, creatingcompartments for three separate flavors of product, incorporated into anoval shaped ice cream carton with tapered sides.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplatedmodes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention. Thedescription is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merelyfor the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention,since the scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims.

Broadly, an embodiment of the present invention provides for subdividinga container into several compartments so that the contents of onecontainer can be divided and separated, such as into two or more flavorsof ice cream, without one flavor touching the other.

Referring to FIG. 1, there will be seen a top view of a container 1indicated by dashed lines, for ice cream or the like. The container 1 isof cylindrical configuration, tapering toward the bottom and shows thevertical edge portion of the present invention 2, shown by hatched line.A flange 3, on one lateral edge of the divider, is created by folding ata scored line 6 and is then adhered to the interior surface of thecontainer 8. Another flange 4, on the opposite lateral end of thedivider, is similarly created by folding at a scored line 7 in theopposite direction and is then adhered to the interior surface of thecontainer generally opposite the first. A flange at the bottom of thedivider 5 is then adhered to the bottom of the container 9. The flanges3, 4, & 5 may be adhered to the inner surface of the container via asuitable adhesive, preferably a food grade adhesive, or a weld, such asa sonic weld.

Referring to FIG. 2, there will be seen a side view of a container, forice cream or the like 1. The container is of cylindrical configuration,tapering toward the bottom and shows a side view of the vertical portion2 of the divider 2. The flange 3, on the lateral edge of the dividerfarthest from view, is created again by folding at the scored line 6 andis then adhered to the interior surface of the container 8. The flangeon the opposite lateral end of the divider 4, in this view, the edgeclosest to view, is similarly created by folding at a scored line 7 inthe opposite direction and is then adhered to the interior surface ofthe container generally opposite the first. This scored line is aninterior fold hidden from view and indicated here by a dotted-dashedline, and this flange 4, is also shown to be adhered to an adhesive areaby dotted area. The flange at the bottom of the divider 5 is thenadhered to the bottom of the container 9.

Referring to FIG. 3, there will be seen a front 2-dimensional view ofthe divider 2, which shows the flat surface of the present inventionbefore any folds or adherence to containers. The flange 3, on the leftedge of the divider will be created by folding at the scoreddashed/dotted line 6 and its opposite side will then be adhered to theinterior surface of the container. The flange on the right of thedivider 4, will similarly be created by folding at scored dashed/dottedline 7 in the opposite direction and will then adhered to the interiorsurface of the container generally opposite the first. The flange at thebottom of the divider 5 is scored along dashed/dotted line extendingfrom the corners 10 to 11 folded in either direction and then adhered tothe bottom of the container.

Referring to FIG. 4, there will be seen a perspective view of thedivider 2. A portion of the container 1 indicated by dashed lines, isincluded for context. 2 shows the flat surface of the present inventionforming the divider, exclusive of flanges and folds. The flange 3, onthe left edge of the divider will be created by folding at the scoredline 6 and its opposite side will then adhered to the interior surfaceof the container. The flange on the right of the divider 4, willsimilarly be created by folding at a scored line 7 in the oppositedirection and will then be adhered to the interior surface of thecontainer generally opposite the first. The flange at the bottom of thedivider 5 is scored along a line extending from the corners 10 to 11folded in either direction and then adhered to the bottom of thecontainer 9.

Referring first to FIG. 5, there will be seen a top view of a container(hereinafter “container”), for ice cream or the like 1. The container isof cylindrical configuration, and shows the vertical portion of thedivider of the present invention 2. A flange 3, on one lateral edge ofthe divider 2, is created by folding at a scored line 6 and is thenadhered to the interior surface of the container 8. Another flange onthe opposite lateral end of the divider 4 is similarly created byfolding at a scored line 7 in the opposite direction and is then adheredto the interior surface of the container generally opposite the first. Aflange at the bottom of the divider 5 is then adhered to the bottom ofthe container 9.

Referring to FIG. 6, there will be seen a side view of a container, forice cream or the like, in 16 oz. and larger sizes 1. The container is ofcylindrical configuration, and shows a side view of the vertical portion2 of the divider 2. The flange 3, on the lateral edge of the dividerfarthest from view, is created again by folding at the scored line 6 andis then adhered to the interior surface of the container 8. The flangeon the opposite lateral end of the divider 4, in this view, the edgeclosest to view, is similarly created by folding at a scored line 7 inthe opposite direction and is then adhered to the interior surface ofthe container generally opposite the first. This scored line is aninterior fold hidden from view and indicated here by a dotted-dashedline, and this flange 4, is also shown to be adhered to an adhesive areaby dotted area. The flange at the bottom of the divider 5 is thenadhered to the bottom of the container 9.

Referring to FIG. 7, there will be seen a top view of a container(hereinafter “container”), for ice cream or the like 1. The container isof rectangular configuration, and shows the vertical portion of thepresent invention 2, shown by a hatched interior. A flange 3, on onelateral edge of the divider, is created by folding at a scored line 6and is then adhered to the interior surface of the container 8. Anotherflange on the opposite lateral end of the divider 4 is similarly createdby folding at a scored line 7 in the opposite direction and is thenadhered to the interior surface of the container generally opposite thefirst. The flange at the bottom of the divider 5 is scored alongdashed/dotted line extending from the corners 10 to 11 folded in eitherdirection and then adhered to the bottom of the container 9.

Referring first to FIG. 8, there will be seen a side view of a container(hereinafter “container”), for ice cream or the like 1. The container isof rectangular configuration, and shows the vertical portion of thepresent invention 2, shown by a hatched line. A flange 3, on one lateraledge of the divider, is created by folding at a scored line 6 runningvertically from top to bottom of the divider, and is then adhered to theinterior surface 8 of the container 1. Another flange 4 on the oppositelateral end of the divider 2 is similarly created by folding, in theopposite direction, at a scored line 7, also running vertically from topto bottom of the divider 2, and is then adhered to the interior surface8 of the container 1 generally opposite the first. The flange 5 at thebottom of the divider 2 is scored along dashed/dotted line extendingfrom the corners 10 to 11 at the opposite end of the bottom of thedivider 2, folded in either direction and then adhered to the bottom 9of the container 1.

Referring to FIG. 9, there will be seen a side view of a container 1 forice cream or the like 1. The container 1 is of rectangularconfiguration, tapering toward the bottom and shows a side view of thevertical portion of the divider 2. The flange 3, on the lateral edge ofthe divider 2 farthest from view, is created again by folding at thescored line 6 and is then adhered to the interior surface 8 of thecontainer 1. The flange 4 on the opposite lateral end of the divider 2,in this view, the edge closest to view, is similarly created by foldingat a scored line 7 in the opposite direction and is then adhered to theinterior surface 8 of the container generally opposite the first. Thisscored line is an interior fold hidden from view and indicated here by adotted-dashed line, and this flange 4, is also shown to be adhered to anadhesive area by dotted area. The flange 5 at the bottom of the divideris then adhered to the bottom of the container 9.

Referring first to FIG. 10, there will be seen a top view of a container1, for ice cream or the like. The container 1 is rectangular shaped withtapered sides and with either oval top or rectangular top with roundedcorners, and shows the vertical portion of the divider 2 of the presentinvention. A flange 3, on one lateral edge of the divider, is created byfolding at a scored line 6 and is then adhered to the interior surfaceof the container 8. Another flange 4 on the opposite lateral end of thedivider 2 is similarly created by folding at a scored line 7 in theopposite direction and is then adhered to the interior surface 8 of thecontainer 1 generally opposite the first. A flange 5 at the bottom ofthe divider 2 is then adhered to the bottom 9 of the container.

Referring to FIG. 11, there will be seen a side view of a container 1,for ice cream or the like. The container 1 is of rectangularconfiguration, tapering toward the bottom and shows two of the dividers2, creating compartments for three separate flavors of product. Theflange 3, on the lateral edge of each of the dividers 2 farthest fromview, is created again by folding at the scored line 6 and is thenadhered to the interior surface 8 of the container 1. The flange 4 onthe opposite lateral end of the divider 2, in this view, the edgeclosest to view, is similarly created by folding at a scored line 7 inthe opposite direction and is then adhered to the interior surface ofthe container 1 generally opposite the first. This scored line is aninterior fold hidden from view and indicated here by a dotted-dashedline, and this flange 4, is also shown to be adhered to an adhesive areaby dotted area. The flange 5 at the bottom of the divider 2 is thenadhered to the bottom 9 of the container 1.

Referring first to FIG. 12, there will be seen a top view of thecontainer 1. The container 1 is rectangular shaped with tapered sidesand with either oval top or rectangular top with rounded corners, andshows two of the dividers 2 of the present invention, creatingcompartments for three separate flavors of product. A flange 3, on onelateral edge of the divider, is created by folding at a scored line 6and is then adhered to the interior surface 8 of the container 1.Another flange 4 on the opposite lateral end of the divider 2 issimilarly created by folding at a scored line 7 in the oppositedirection and is then adhered to the interior surface 8 of the container1 generally opposite the first. A flange 5 at the bottom of the divider2 is then adhered to the bottom 9 of the container 1.

Referring first to FIG. 13, there will be seen a top view of a container1, for ice cream or the like. The container 1 is of rectangularconfiguration, and shows two of the dividers 2 of the present invention,creating compartments for three separate flavors of product. The flange3, on the lateral edge of each of the dividers 2 is created again byfolding at the scored line 6 and is then adhered to the interior surface8 of the container 1. The flange 4 on the opposite lateral end of thedivider 2, is similarly created by folding at a scored line 7 in theopposite direction and is then adhered to the interior surface 8 of thecontainer generally opposite the first. The flange 5 at the bottom ofthe divider 2 is scored along dashed/dotted line extending from thecorners 10 to 11 folded in either direction and then adhered to thebottom 9 of the container 1.

Referring first to FIG. 14, there will be seen a side view of acontainer 1, for ice cream or the like 1. The container 1 is ofrectangular configuration, shows two of the dividers 2 of the presentinvention, the dividers 2, creating compartments for three separateflavors of product. A flange 3, on one lateral edge of the divider, iscreated by folding at a scored line 6 running vertically from top tobottom of the divider 2, and is then adhered to the interior surface 8of the container 1. Another flange 4 on the opposite lateral end of thedivider 2 is similarly created by folding, in the opposite direction, ata scored line 7, also running vertically from top to bottom of thedivider 2, and is then adhered to the interior surface 8 of thecontainer generally opposite the first. The flange 5 at the bottom ofthe divider 2 is scored along dashed/dotted line extending from thecorners 10 to 11 at the opposite end of the bottom of the divider 2,folded in either direction and then adhered to the bottom 9 of thecontainer 1.

Referring first to FIG. 15, there will be seen a top view of a container100, for ice cream or the like. The container 100 is of cylindricalconfiguration, tapering toward the bottom and shows the vertical portionof the dividers 102 of the present invention. A flange 103, on onelateral edge of the divider 102, is created by folding at a scored line106 and is then adhered to the interior surface 108 of the container100. On the same lateral edge of the divider 102, another flange 103, iscreated by folding at a scored line 106 and is then adhered to theinterior surface 108 of the container 100. On the opposite lateral endof the divider 102, flange 104 is similarly created by folding at ascored line 107 in the opposite direction and is then adhered to theopposite side of interior surface 108 of the container 100. On the samelateral edge of the divider 102, another flange 104, is created byfolding at a scored line 107 and is then adhered to the interior surface108 of the container 100. A flange 105 one at each end of the divider102, is created by folding at a line running from point 106 to 107, andis then adhered to the bottom 109 of the container 100.

Referring to FIG. 16, there will be seen a side view of a container 100,for ice cream or the like. The container 100 is of cylindricalconfiguration, tapering toward the bottom and shows a side view of thevertical portion of the dividers 102 of the present invention. Theflange 104, in this view, the edge closest to view, is created byfolding at a scored line in the interior fold 107. This scored line isan interior fold hidden from view and indicated here by a dashed lineand the flange 104 is then adhered to the interior surface 108 of thecontainer 100. On the same lateral edge of the divider 102, anotherflange 104, is created by folding at a scored line 107 and is thenadhered to the interior surface 108 of the container 100. On theopposite lateral end of the divider, two flanges 103, not visible fromthis view are similarly created by folding at scored lines 106 and thenadhered to the opposite side of interior surface 108 of the container100.

Referring to FIG. 17, there will be seen a front 2-dimensional view ofthe divider, 102 of the present invention. The divider 102 shows theflat surface of the divider, 102 of the present invention before anyfolds or adherence to container 100. The flange 103, on the left edge ofthe divider will be created by folding at the scored dashed/dotted line,running from points 106 to 106, will then adhered to the interiorsurface 108 of the container. The flange 104 on the right of the divider102, will similarly be created by folding at scored dashed/dotted line107 and will then adhered to the interior surface 108 of the containergenerally opposite the first. The flange 105 at the bottom of thedivider 102 is scored along dashed/dotted line extending from thecorners 106 to 107, folded outward and then adhered to the bottom 108 ofthe container. A slit 112 in the divider 102 extends to the point atcorner 106. On the other end of the divider, similarly flange 103, onthe same lateral edge, is created by folding at a scored line, runningfrom point 106 to 106, and is then adhered to the interior surface ofthe container. On the opposite lateral edge, flange 104, is created byfolding at a scored line, running from 107 to 107 is adhered to theinterior surface 108 of the container 100. A slit 112, in the divider102 extends to the point at corner 107. On the other end of the divider102, flange 104, on the same lateral edge, is created by folding at ascored line, running from point 107 to 107, and is then adhered to theinterior surface 108 of the container 100. Divider 102 is folded along aline 113 and the interior surfaces adhered to each other to create thesingle panel shown in FIGS. 15 16, and 18.

Referring to FIG. 18, there will be seen a perspective view of thedivider 102 of the present invention. Divider 102 is folded along 113 tocreate the single panel shown in FIGS. 15 16, and 18. The flanges 103,on the left edge of the divider 102 will be created by folding at thescored line 106 and its opposite side will then adhered to the interiorsurface 108 of the container 100. The flanges 104 on the right of thedivider 102, will similarly be created by folding at a scored line 107and then be adhered to the interior surface 108 of the container 100generally opposite the first. The flange 105 at the bottom of thedivider 102 is scored along line 106 to 107, folded and then adhered tothe bottom of the container. Slits 112 are formed at the two sides ofthe divider 102.

Referring first to FIG. 19, there will be seen a perspective view of thedivider 102 of the present invention. A portion of the container 100 isincluded for context. Divider 102 shows one side of the flat surface ofthe material forming the divider 102, exclusive of flanges and folds.Flanges 103, on the left edge of the divider 102 will be created byfolding at scored lines 106 and its opposite side will then adhered tothe interior surface 108 of the container 100. Flanges 104 on the rightof the divider 102, will similarly be created by folding at a scoredlines 107 in the opposite direction and will then be adhered to theinterior surface 108 of the container 100 generally opposite the first.The flange 105 at the bottom of the divider 102 is scored along a line110, folded in either direction and then adhered to the bottom 109 ofthe container 100. Slits 112 are formed along the edges where two sidesof the divider 102 are divided. The top edge 113 of the divider 102 iscreated when divider 102 is folded in half.

Referring to FIG. 20, there will be seen a top view of a container 100,for ice cream or the like, in 16 oz. and larger sizes. The container 100is of cylindrical configuration and shows the vertical portion of thedivider 102 of the present invention. Flanges 103, on one lateral edgeof the divider 102, are created by folding at scored lines 106 and arethen adhered to the interior surface 108 of the container 100. Flangeson the opposite lateral end 104 of the divider 102 are similarly createdby folding at scored lines 107 in opposite directions and are thenadhered to the interior surface 108 of the container 100 generallyopposite the first. Flanges 105 at the bottom of the divider 102 arethen adhered to the bottom 109 of the container 100.

Referring to FIG. 21, there will be seen a side view of a container 100for ice cream or the like. The container 100 is of cylindricalconfiguration and shows a side view of the vertical portion of thedivider 102 of the present invention. The flange 104, in this view, theedge closest to view, is created by folding at a scored line 107 in theinterior fold. This scored line 107 is an interior fold hidden from viewand indicated here by a dashed line and the flange 104 is then adheredto the interior surface 108 of the container 100. On the same lateraledge of the divider 102, another flange 104, is created by folding atscored line 107 and is then adhered to the interior surface 108 of thecontainer 100. On the opposite lateral end of the divider 102, twoflanges 103, not visible from this view are similarly created by foldingat scored lines 106 and then adhered to the opposite side of interiorsurface 108 of the container 100. Flanges at the bottom 105 of thedivider 102 are then adhered to the bottom 109 of the container 100.

Referring first to FIG. 22, there will be seen a top view of a container100, for ice cream or the like. The container 100 is of rectangularconfiguration, and shows the vertical portion of the divider 102 of thepresent invention. Flanges 103, on one lateral edge of the divider, arecreated by folding at scored lines 106 and are then adhered to theinterior surface 108 of the container 100. Flanges 104 on the oppositelateral end of the divider 102 are similarly created by folding at ascored lines 107 and are then adhered to the interior surface 108 of thecontainer 100 generally opposite the first. The flanges 105 at thebottom of the divider 100 are scored along the line extending from thecorners 106 to 107, folded in either direction and then adhered to thebottom 109 of the container 100.

Referring to FIG. 23, there will be seen a side view of a container 100,for ice cream or the like. The container 100 is of rectangularconfiguration, and shows a side view of the vertical portion of thedivider 102 of the present invention. The flange 104, in this view, theedge closest to view, is created by folding at a scored line in theinterior fold 107. This scored line is an interior fold hidden from viewand indicated here by a dashed line and the flange 104 is then adheredto the interior surface 108 of the container 100. On the same lateraledge of the divider 102, another flange 104, is created by folding at ascored line 107 and is then adhered to the interior surface 108 of thecontainer 100 shown to be adhered by dotted area. On the oppositelateral end of the divider 102, two flanges 103, not visible from thisview are similarly created by folding at a scored line 106 and thenadhered to the opposite side of interior surface 108 of the container100.

Referring to FIG. 24, there will be seen a side view of a container 100,for ice cream or the like. The container 100 is of rectangularconfiguration, tapering toward the bottom and shows a side view of thevertical portion of the divider 102 of the present invention. A flange104, in this view, the edge closest to view, is created by folding at ascored line in the interior fold 107. This scored line 107 is aninterior fold hidden from view and indicated here by a dashed line andthe flange 104 is then adhered to the interior surface 108 of thecontainer 100. On the same lateral edge of the divider, another flange104, is created by folding at a scored line 107 and is then adhered tothe interior surface 108 of the container 100 shown to be adhered bydotted area. On the opposite lateral end of the divider 102, two flanges103, not visible from this view are similarly created by folding atscored lines 106 and then adhered to the opposite side of interiorsurface 108 of the container 100. Flanges 105 at the bottom of thedivider 102 are then adhered to the bottom 109 of the container 100.

Referring to FIG. 25, there will be seen a top view of a container 100,for ice cream or the like. The container 100 is rectangular shaped withtapered sides and with either oval top or rectangular top with roundedcorners, and shows the vertical portion of the divider 102 of thepresent invention. Flanges 103, on one lateral edge of the divider 102,are created by folding at scored lines 106 and are then adhered to theinterior surface 108 of the container 100. Flanges 104 on the oppositelateral end of the divider 102 are similarly created by folding atscored lines 107 and are then adhered to the interior surface 108 of thecontainer 100 generally opposite the first. Flanges 105 at the bottom ofthe divider 102 are then adhered to the bottom 109 of the container 109.

Referring to FIG. 26, there will be seen a side view of a container 100,for ice cream or the like. The container 100 is of rectangularconfiguration, tapering toward the bottom and shows two of the dividers102 of the present invention, the dividers 102 defining compartments forthree separate flavors of product. Flanges 104, in this view are createdby folding at a scored line in the interior fold 107. This scored lineis an interior fold hidden from view and indicated here by a dashed lineand the flanges 104 are then adhered to the interior surface 108 of thecontainer 100. On the opposite lateral end of the divider 102, twoflanges 103, not visible from this view are similarly created by foldingat scored lines 106 running vertically from top to bottom of the divider102 then adhered to the interior surface 108 of the container 100.Flanges 105 at the bottom of the divider 102 are then adhered to thebottom 109 of the container 100.

Referring to FIG. 27, there will be seen a top view of a container 100,for ice cream or the like. The container 100 is rectangular shaped withtapered sides and with either oval top or rectangular top with roundedcorners, and shows two of the dividers 102 of the present invention, thedividers, creating compartments for three separate flavors of product.Flanges 103, on one lateral edge of the dividers, are created by foldingat scored lines 106 and are then adhered to the interior surface 108 ofthe container 100. Flanges 104 on the opposite lateral end of thedivider 102 are similarly created by folding at scored lines 107 andthen adhered to the interior surface 108 of the container generallyopposite the first. Flanges 105 at the bottom of the divider 102 arethen adhered to the bottom 109 of the container 100.

Referring to FIG. 28, there will be seen a top view of a container 100,for ice cream or the like. The container 100 is of rectangularconfiguration, and shows two of the dividers 102 of the presentinvention, the dividers 102 defining compartments for three separateflavors of product. Flanges 103, on the lateral edge of each of thedividers is created by folding at the scored lines 106 and are thenadhered to the interior surface 108 of the container 100. Flanges 104 onthe opposite lateral end of the dividers 102, are similarly created byfolding at scored lines 107 and then adhered to the interior surface 108of the container 100 generally opposite the first. Flanges 105 at thebottom of the dividers 102 are then adhered to the bottom 109 of thecontainer 100.

Referring to FIG. 29, there will be seen a side view of a container 100,for ice cream or the like. The container 100 is of rectangularconfiguration, shows two of the dividers 102 of the present invention,the dividers 102 creating compartments for three separate flavors ofproduct. Flanges 104, on one lateral edge of the divider 102, arecreated by folding at scored lines 106 running vertically from top tobottom of the divider 102, and are then adhered to the interior surface108 of the container 100. Flanges 103 on the opposite lateral end of thedivider 102 are similarly created by folding, in the opposite direction,at a scored line 107, also running vertically from top to bottom of thedivider 102, and are then adhered to the interior surface 108 of thecontainer 100 generally opposite the first. Flanges 105 at the bottom ofthe divider 102 are then adhered to the bottom 109 of the container 100.

Referring to FIG. 30 there will be seen a top view of a container 201for ice cream or the like. The assembled container 201 is of cylindricalconfiguration, tapering toward the bottom with the top edge being 202and the bottom edge of container being 203 when assembled.

Referring to FIG. 31, there will be seen a top view of this inventionfor a container for ice cream, or the like 201. The container 201 is ofcylindrical configuration, tapering toward the bottom when assembled. Inthis view panels 204 and 205 comprising the divider of the presentinvention which are added to create the divider in the center of the icecream carton 201. When so added and when folded at a line 206, inwardly,in this view downward panels 204 and 205 are adhered to each other,creating a unitary divider. Lines at 214 and 215 are scored for foldingto create a flange 218 and 219, and adhered to each other, which isfolded and then adhered to the inner side of the carton 201. A slit 207,separates flanges 208 and 209 which when folded perpendicular to 204 and205, along lines 216 and 217, and are adhered to bottom of thecontainer. Panels 210 and 211 are folded outwardly, in this view upward,and form the bottom edge of the divider. When the container is rolledand folded into a cylinder, edge 212 is joined to edge 213 to seal theside of the carton 201. A circular piece, not shown is then joined tothe bottom of container at the circular edge 203.

Referring to FIG. 32, there will be seen a perspective view of theinvention, for a container 201 for ice cream, or the like. Shown byarrow is the direction of folding to create the cylindrical shape, whichtapers inwardly toward the bottom of container 201 when assembled. Whenthe folding is completed, panels 204 and 205 are adhered to each other,to create the divider in the center of the ice cream carton and therebyforming the one edge of the divider. A slit 207, separates flanges 208and 209 which when folded perpendicular to 204 and 205, along lines 216and 217, are adhered to bottom of container. 210 and 211 are foldedoutwardly, and form the other edge of the divider. When the container isfolded into a cylinder, edge 212 is joined to edge 213 to seal the sideof the carton. Once the carton is assembled, areas 204 and 205 of thedivider are folded lines at 214 and 215, in either direction, creatingthe flange formed by 218 and 219 and then adhered to inside of thecarton. A circular piece, not shown is then joined to the bottom ofcontainer at the circular edge 203.

Referring to FIG. 33, there will be seen a top view of the container201, for ice cream or the like. The container 201 is of cylindricalconfiguration, tapering toward the bottom, the container having a topedge 202 and a bottom edge 203. Panels 204 and 205 are interior panelsthat are folded together and adhered to create the vertical portion ofthe divider. Edges 210 and 211 are folded along a scored line and whenpanels 204 and 205 are adhered these edges 210 and 211 form a seamjoining one side of the carton. Ends 212 and 213 of the carton areadhered at a seam opposite. Flanges 218 and 219, are created by foldingfrom the center at 206 to 214 and 215 which are folded in the oppositedirection and adhered to each other. Another fold at 216 and 217 createsflanges 208 and 209 that are adhered to the bottom of the carton.

Referring to FIG. 34, there will be seen a side view of the container201 for ice cream or the like. The container 201 is of cylindricalconfiguration, tapering toward the bottom. The top edge 202 of thecontainer and the bottom edge 203. Panels 204 and 205 are interiorpanels that are folded together and adhered to create the verticalportion of the divider. Edges 210 and 211 are the edges that are foldedalong a scored line and when panels 204 and 205 are adhered this edgeform a seam joining one side of the carton 201. Ends 212 and 213, (notshown) the two ends of the carton are adhered at a seam opposite. Aflange 218 and 219, (not shown) is created by folding from the center at206 to 214 and 215 which are folded in the opposite direction andadhered to each other. Another fold at 216 and 217 create flanges 208and 209 that are adhered to the bottom of the carton.

Referring to FIG. 35 there will be seen a flat view of a container 300,for ice cream or the like. The assembled container 300 is of acylindrical configuration. Edges 302 indicates top edge and 303indicates the bottom edge of container when assembled.

Referring to FIG. 36, there will be seen a flat view of a divider 302for a container for ice cream, or the like. When formed, the container300 is of cylindrical configuration. In this view panels 304 and 305form the divider in the center of the ice cream carton 300. When soadded and when folded at a line 306, inwardly, in this view downwardpanels 304 and 305 are adhered to each other, creating a unitarydivider, shown by shaded area. Lines at 314 and 315 are scored forfolding to create a flange formed by 318 and 319, which is adhered tothe inner side of the carton 300. A slit 307, separates flanges 308 and309 which when folded perpendicular to 304 and 305, along lines 316 and317, are adhered to bottom of the container. Edges 310 and 311 arejoined to form the other edge of the divider 302. When the container 300is formed into a cylinder, edge 312 is joined to edge 313 to seal theside of the carton 300. A circular piece, not shown is then joined tothe bottom of container at the circular edge 303.

Referring to FIG. 37, there will be seen a top view of the container300, for ice cream or the like. The container 300 is of cylindricalconfiguration having a top edge 302 and a bottom edge 303. Interiorpanels 304 and 305 are folded together and adhered to create thevertical portion of the divider. Edges 310 and 311 are folded along ascored line and when panels 304 and 305 are adhered these edges form aseam joining one side of the carton 300. Ends 312 and 313 of the cartonare adhered at an opposite seam. A flange 318 and 319, is created byfolding from the center at 306 to 314 and 315 which are folded in theopposite direction and adhered to each other. Another fold 316 and 317creates flanges 308 and 309 that are adhered to the bottom of the carton300.

Referring to FIG. 38, there will be seen a side view of the container300. The container 300 is of cylindrical configuration, having a topedge 302 and a bottom edge 303. Panels 304 and 305 are interior panelsthat are folded together and adhered to create the vertical portion ofthe divider. Edges 310 and 311 are the edges that are folded along ascored line and when panels 304 and 305 are adhered these edges form aseam joining one side of the carton 300. A flange 318 and 319 on thereverse side, not visible in this view, is folded and adhered to theinterior of the carton 300, indicated by dotted fill. Another fold at316 and 317 creates flanges 308 and 309 that are adhered to the bottomof the carton.

Referring to FIG. 39, there will be seen a front 2-dimensional view ofthe divider 402 of the present invention. The divider 402 comprises flatsurface before any folds or adherence to container 401. The flange 403,on the left edge of the divider 402 will be created by folding at thescored dashed/dotted line 406 and its opposite side will then be adheredto the interior surface of the container. The flange 404 on the right ofthe divider 402 will similarly be created by folding at scoreddashed/dotted line 407 in the opposite direction and will then beadhered to the interior surface of the container generally opposite thefirst. The flange 405 at the bottom of the divider is scored alongdashed/dotted line extending from the corners 410 to 411 folded ineither direction and then adhered to the bottom of the container 401.

Referring to FIG. 40 there will be seen a perspective view of thedivider 402. A bottom portion 409 of the container, indicated by dashedlines, is included for context. The flange 403 on the left edge of thedivider 402 will be created by folding at the scored line 406 and itsopposite side will then adhered to the interior surface of the container401. The flange 404 on the right of the divider 402 will similarly becreated by folding at a scored line 407 in the opposite direction andwill then be adhered to the interior surface of the container 401generally opposite the first. The flange at the bottom of the divider405 is scored along a line extending from the corners 410 to 411 foldedin either direction and then adhered to the bottom of the container 409.

Referring to FIG. 41, there will be seen a top view of a plastic, orother material tub container 401. The container 401 is of cylindricalconfiguration, tapering toward the bottom and shows the vertical portionof the divider 402. A flange 403, on one lateral edge of the divider402, is created by folding at a scored line 406 and is then adhered tothe interior surface 408 of the container. Another flange 404 on theopposite lateral end of the divider 402 is similarly created by foldingat a scored line 407 in the opposite direction and is then adhered tothe interior surface 408 of the container 401 generally opposite thefirst. A flange 405 at the bottom of the divider 402 is then adhered tothe bottom 409 of the container 402.

Referring to FIG. 42, there will be seen a perspective view of thedivider 402 installed in a plastic tub container 401. The container 401is of cylindrical configuration, tapering toward the bottom and shows aperspective view of the vertical portion 402 of the divider 402. Theflange 403, on the left edge of the divider 402 will be created byfolding at the scored line 406 and its opposite side will then beadhered to the interior surface 408 of the container 401. The flange 404on the right of the divider 402, will similarly be created by folding ata scored line 407 in the opposite direction and will then be adhered tothe interior surface 408 of the container 401 generally opposite thefirst. The flange 405 at the bottom of the divider 402 is adhered to thebottom of the container 409.

Referring to FIG. 43, there will be seen a top view of a plastic tubcontainer 501, for ice cream or the like. The container 501 is ofcylindrical configuration, tapering toward the bottom and shows thevertical portion of the divider 502. Panel 503, is formed with flanges504 and 505 at its end which are fused to the interior of the container.Panel 506, is formed with flanges 507 and 508 at its end which are fusedto the interior of the container. Panel 509, is formed with flanges 510and 511 at its end which are fused to the interior of the container 501.The bottom of panel 503 is formed with flanges 512 and 513 on eitherside which are fused to the bottom of the container. The bottom of panel506 is formed with flanges 514 and 515 on either side which are fused tothe bottom of the container 501. The bottom of panel 509 is formed withflanges 516 and 517 on either side which are fused to the bottom of thecontainer.

Referring to FIG. 44, there will be seen a perspective view of a plastictub container 501 for ice cream or the like. The container is ofcylindrical configuration, tapering toward the bottom and shows adivider of the present invention within the plastic tub container 501.Panel 503, is formed with flanges 504 and 505 at its end which are fusedto the interior of the container 501. Panel 506, is formed with flanges507 and 508 at its end which are fused to the interior of the container501. Panel 509 is formed with flanges 510 and 511 at its end which arefused to the interior of the container 501. The bottom of panel 506 isformed with flanges 514 (not visible) and 515 on either side which arefused to the bottom of the container. The bottom of panel 509 is formedwith flanges 516 (not visible) and 517 on either side which are fused tothe bottom of the container.

Referring to FIG. 45 is a 2-dimensional view of a flattened pattern ofthe carton 601 for assembly into cardboard cartons for ice cream,sherbet, yogurt and other such products. The hatched area of the drawingshows the divider 602, when incorporated into the cube shaped carton forice cream. Line 603 is creased for folding, such that when the flatcardboard shape is placed on the reverse side of the side shown panel604, identified as the inside front, is folded 180 degrees and adheredto the panel identified as the front of the carton. With the carton 601in said position front panel is in a vertical position. With panel 604so adhered, panel 606 is then folded perpendicular to adhered frontpanel and 606, at crease 605, parallel to front half of the bottom paneland adhered to front half of bottom panel up to a line at 609. When soadhered, panel 608 is then folded up, vertically at crease 607, thenpanel 611 is folded down at crease 610, adhered to 608 forming onedouble panel in the lengthwise middle of the carton. This panel 608-611extends perpendicular at line 609. Slits 616 and 617 enable flanges 612and 613 on one side and 614 and 615 on the other side, to be adhered tothe side of the carton. Panel 619 is then folded onto the other half ofthe bottom panel and adhered to that half of bottom panel where edge 620aligns to line 621.

Referring to FIG. 46 is a top view of the divider when assembled into arectangular shaped ice cream container 601. Panel 604, shows the insidefront of the carton and is adhered to the front of the carton. Panel 606is the horizontal panel that is adhered to ½ of the bottom of carton.Panel 608 is a vertical panel that is adhered to panel 611 to form thedivider in the carton. Fold line 610 is the point at the top of thedivider at which 608-611 are folded. Panel 619 is then adhered to theother ½ of the bottom of the carton. Flanges 613 and 615, on the edgesof 608 are adhered to the inside of the carton at one end. Flanges 612and 614 on the edges of panel 611 are adhered to the inside of thecarton at the opposite end.

Referring to FIG. 47 is a side view of the interior of the carton with adivider of the present invention fully assembled into a rectangularshaped ice cream container. Panel 604, shows the inside front of theopened carton and is adhered to the front of the carton. Panel 606 isthe horizontal panel that is adhered to ½ of the bottom of carton. Panel608 is a vertical panel that is adhered to 611 to form the divider inthe carton. Fold line 610 is the point at the top of the divider atwhich 608-611 are folded. Panel 619 is then adhered to the other ½ ofthe bottom of the carton. Flanges 612 and 614 on the edges of panel 608(not visible here) are adhered to the inside of the carton. Flanges 613and 615 on the edges of panel 611 (not visible here) are adhered to theinside of the carton at the opposite end.

Referring to FIG. 48 is a 2-dimensional view of the container 701 forassembly into cardboard cartons for ice cream, sherbet, yogurt and othersuch products. The hatched area of the drawing will form the dividerpresent invention, when incorporated into the cube shaped carton for icecream. Fold lines 703 and 704 represent lines that are creased forfolding, such that when the flat cardboard shape is placed on thereverse side of the side shown, panels 705 and 706, are folded 180degrees upward and adhered to the panels 707 and 708. With panels 705and 706 so adhered, panels 705-707 and 706-708 are then folded atcreases 709 and 710, upward perpendicular to the carton bottom, andpanels 711 and 712 are folded at creases 713 and 714 toward the middleline of the carton 715 and adhered to the bottom. Panels 716 and 717 arethen folded at creases 718 and 719 upward, adhered together to form a 2ply divider in the middle of the carton along line 715 with its top edgeat 720. Flanges 721 and 722 at one end and flanges 723 and 724 at theother end are then adhered to the inside surface of the carton.

FIG. 49 is a top view of a divider of the present invention whenassembled into a rectangular shaped ice cream container. Panel 706 is avertical panel that is adhered to 708 and panel 705 is a vertical panelthat is adhered to panel 707 to form the divider at the bottom of thecontainer up to line 715. Panel 711 is adhered to ½ of the bottom up toline 715 and panel 712 is adhered to the other ½. Flanges 722 and 724are adhered to the back panel of the carton and flanges 721 and 723 areadhered to the front panel of the carton.

FIG. 50 is a side view of the interior of the carton with a divider ofthe present invention when fully assembled into a rectangular shaped icecream container. Panel 711 is adhered to ½ of the bottom of thecontainer up to line 715 and panel 712 is adhered to the other ½ of thecontainer. Flanges 722 and 724 are adhered to the back panel of thecarton. Vertical panel 716 is adhered to vertical panel 717 therebyforming the divider of which 720 is the top edge.

Referring to FIG. 51, there will be seen a side view of a container 801for ice cream or the like 801. The container 801 is of ovalconfiguration, tapering toward the bottom and shows a side view of thevertical portion of the divider 802. The flange 803, on the lateral edgeof the divider 802 farthest from view, is created by folding at thescored line 806 and is then adhered to the interior surface 808 of thecontainer 801. The flange 804 on the opposite lateral end of the divider802, in this view, the edge closest to view, is similarly created byfolding at a scored line 807 in the opposite direction and is thenadhered to the interior surface 808 of the container generally oppositethe first. This scored line is an interior fold hidden from view andindicated here by a dotted-dashed line, and this flange 804, is alsoshown to be adhered to an adhesive area by dotted area. The flange 805at the bottom of the divider is then adhered to the bottom of thecontainer 809.

Referring first to FIG. 52, there will be seen a top view of a container801, for ice cream or the like. The container 801 is oval shaped viewedfrom the top with tapered sides and with an oval top, and shows thevertical portion of the divider 802 of the present invention. A flange803, on one lateral edge of the divider, is created by folding at ascored line 806 and is then adhered to the interior surface of thecontainer 808. Another flange 804 on the opposite lateral end of thedivider 802 is similarly created by folding at a scored line 807 in theopposite direction and is then adhered to the interior surface 808 ofthe container 801 generally opposite the first. A flange 805 at thebottom of the divider 802 is then adhered to the bottom 809 of thecontainer.

Referring to FIG. 53, there will be seen a side view of a container 900,for ice cream or the like. The container 900 is of oval configurationviewed from the top, tapering toward the bottom and shows a side view ofthe vertical portion of the divider 902 of the present invention. Aflange 904, in this view, the edge closest to view, is created byfolding at a scored line in the interior fold 907. This scored line 907is an interior fold hidden from view and indicated here by a dashed lineand the flange 904 is then adhered to the interior surface 908 of thecontainer 900. On the same lateral edge of the divider, another flange904, is created by folding at a scored line 907 and is then adhered tothe interior surface 908 of the container 900 shown to be adhered bydotted area. On the opposite lateral end of the divider 902, two flanges903, not visible from this view are similarly created by folding atscored lines 906 and then adhered to the opposite side of interiorsurface 908 of the container 900. Flanges 905 at the bottom of thedivider 902 are then adhered to the bottom 909 of the container 900.

Referring to FIG. 54, there will be seen a top view of a container 1000,for ice cream or the like. The container 1000 is oval shaped withtapered sides and with an oval top, and shows the vertical portion ofthe divider 1002 of the present invention. Flanges 1003, on one lateraledge of the divider 1002, are created by folding at scored lines 1006and are then adhered to the interior surface 1008 of the container 1000.Flanges 1004 on the opposite lateral end of the divider 1002 aresimilarly created by folding at scored lines 1007 and are then adheredto the interior surface 1008 of the container 1000 generally oppositethe first. Flanges 1005 at the bottom of the divider 1002 are thenadhered to the bottom 1009 of the container 1009.

Referring to FIG. 55, there will be seen a side view of a container1101, for ice cream or the like. The container 1101 is of ovalconfiguration viewed from the top, tapering toward the bottom and showstwo of the dividers 1102, creating compartments for three separateflavors of product. The flange 1103, on the lateral edge of each of thedividers 1102 farthest from view, is created again by folding at thescored line 1106 and is then adhered to the interior surface 1108 of thecontainer 1101. The flange 1104 on the opposite lateral end of thedivider 1102, in this view, the edge closest to view, is similarlycreated by folding at a scored line 1107 in the opposite direction andis then adhered to the interior surface of the container 1101 generallyopposite the first. This scored line is an interior fold hidden fromview and indicated here by a dotted-dashed line, and this flange 1104,is also shown to be adhered to an adhesive area by dotted area. Theflange 1105 at the bottom of the divider 1102 is then adhered to thebottom 1109 of the container 1101.

Referring first to FIG. 56, there will be seen a top view of thecontainer 1101. The container 1101 is rectangular shaped with taperedsides and with either oval top or rectangular top with rounded corners,and shows two of the dividers 1102 of the present invention, creatingcompartments for three separate flavors of product. A flange 1103, onone lateral edge of the divider, is created by folding at a scored line1106 and is then adhered to the interior surface 1108 of the container1101. Another flange 1104 on the opposite lateral end of the divider1102 is similarly created by folding at a scored line 1107 in theopposite direction and is then adhered to the interior surface 1108 ofthe container 1101 generally opposite the first. A flange 1105 at thebottom of the divider 1102 is then adhered to the bottom 1109 of thecontainer 1101.

Referring to FIG. 57, there will be seen a side view of a container1200, for ice cream or the like. The container 1200 is of ovalconfiguration viewed from the top, tapering toward the bottom and showstwo of the dividers 1202 of the present invention, the dividers 1202defining compartments for three separate flavors of product. Flanges1204, in this view are created by folding at a scored line in theinterior fold 1207. This scored line is an interior fold hidden fromview and indicated here by a dashed line and the flanges 1204 are thenadhered to the interior surface 1208 of the container 1200. On theopposite lateral end of the divider 1202, two flanges 1203, not visiblefrom this view are similarly created by folding at scored lines 1206running vertically from top to bottom of the divider 1202 then adheredto the interior surface 1208 of the container 1200. Flanges 1205 at thebottom of the divider 1202 are then adhered to the bottom 1209 of thecontainer 1200.

Referring to FIG. 58, there will be seen a top view of a container 1200,for ice cream or the like. The container 1200 is of oval configurationviewed from the top, tapering toward the bottom and shows two of thedividers 1202 of the present invention, the dividers, creatingcompartments for three separate flavors of product. Flanges 1203, on onelateral edge of the dividers, are created by folding at scored lines1206 and are then adhered to the interior surface 1208 of the container1200. Flanges 1204 on the opposite lateral end of the divider 1202 aresimilarly created by folding at scored lines 1207 and then adhered tothe interior surface 1208 of the container generally opposite the first.Flanges 1205 at the bottom of the divider 1202 are then adhered to thebottom 1209 of the container 1200.

It will be appreciated that the containers described and claimed hereinmay be formed of any suitable material, such as coated cardboardmaterial or a plastic material. Preferably, where the containers areused to contain frozen food products, the selected material is a foodgrade material. Similarly, the dividers or their associated flanges maybe adhered to the inner surface of the container via a suitableadhesive, preferably a food grade adhesive. In the case where thecontainers are formed of plastics, the dividers may be adhered via aweld, such as a sonic weld. In like manner, each of the containers maybe fitted with a lid to seal a top opening of the container.

The containers may also be formed in a variety of sizes, or volumes. Forexample, Ice cream is generally sold in 1 pint (16 ounce) cylindricalcartons some of which have a somewhat flat bottom and a gently taperingconical side wall. Larger capacity containers such as 48 oz. roundcardboard, 48 oz. round plastic 48 oz. tubs, 1.75 quart and ½ gal/twoquarts and gallon containers are also commonly used.

A method for containing a plurality of semi-fluid materials which can behardened by freezing, such as ice cream, may include providing acontainer according to the various embodiments as described. Thecontainer will have a divider interposed substantially verticallybetween opposed sides of the sidewall of the container. The divider issealingly attached to the opposed sides and the bottom to define a firstcompart and a second compartment for containment of the semi-fluidmaterial. The method may also include filling the first compartment witha first semi-fluid material. By way of example, the first semi-fluidmaterial may be a first flavored ice cream. The method would alsoinclude filling the second compartment with a second semi-fluidmaterial, which may be a second flavored ice cream.

The semi fluid materials may be frozen individually after eachcompartment has been filled. Alternatively, the first and the secondsemi-fluid materials may be frozen after both have filled theirrespective compartments. The containers may then be sealed by applying alid to close the top opening.

In another embodiment of the method, the step of providing a containermay include adhering a plurality of dividers in a spaced apart relationwithin the container to define a plurality of compartments. In thisembodiment, the step of filling would include filling each of theplurality of compartments with a dissimilar semi-fluid material. Thefreezing steps may be applied individually after filling each of theplurality of compartments. Alternatively, the freezing or may be appliedafter all of the plurality of compartments are filled.

It should be understood, of course, that the foregoing relates toexemplary embodiments of the invention and that modifications may bemade without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as setforth in the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A container for a semi-fluid material which canbe hardened by freezing, comprising: a generally cylindrical sidewall,defining a top opening and a bottom opening, the sidewall divergingoutwardly between the bottom opening and the top opening; a bottomjoined to a lower portion of the generally cylindrical sidewall to sealthe bottom opening; a divider interposed substantially verticallybetween opposed sides of the generally cylindrical sidewall of thecontainer, the divider sealingly attached to the opposed sides and thebottom, defining a first compart and a second compartment forcontainment of the semi-fluid material.
 2. The container of claim 1,wherein the cylindrical sidewall is rectangular.
 3. The container ofclaim 1, wherein the divider further comprises: a first flange formedalong a lower edge of the divider; a second flange formed along avertical edge of the divider; wherein the first is adhered to an innersurface of the bottom and the second flange is adhered to an innersurface of the sidewall.
 4. The container of claim 3, wherein the firstflange and the second flange are adhered to the container with anadhesive.
 5. The container of claim 4, wherein the adhesive is a foodgrade adhesive.
 6. The container of claim 3, wherein the first flangeand the second flange are adhered to the container with a weld.
 7. Thecontainer of claim 3, wherein the divider further comprises: a firstscore line defined spaced apart from the lower edge of the divider,wherein the first flange is formed by a fold of the lower edge of thedivider along the first score line; a second score line defined inwardlyspaced from the vertical edge of the divider, wherein the second flangeis formed by a fold of the vertical edge of the divider along the secondscore line.
 8. The container of claim 7, wherein an opposed secondflange extend from opposite sides of the divider.
 9. The container ofclaim 7, further comprising: a plurality of dividers adhered in a spacedapart relation along an interior length of the container to define morethan two compartments.
 10. The container of claim 1 further comprising alid to close the top opening.
 11. A method of containing a plurality ofsemi-fluid materials which can be hardened by freezing, comprising:providing a container having, a generally cylindrical sidewall, defininga top opening and a bottom opening, the sidewall diverging outwardlybetween the bottom opening and the top opening; a bottom joined to alower portion of the generally cylindrical sidewall to seal the bottomopening; a divider interposed substantially vertically between opposedsides of the generally cylindrical sidewall, the divider sealinglyattached to the opposed sides and the bottom, defining a first compartand a second compartment for containment of the semi-fluid material. 12.The method of claim 11, further comprising: filling the firstcompartment with a first semi-fluid material.
 13. The method of claim12, further comprising: filling the second compartment with a secondsemi-fluid material.
 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising:freezing the first and the second semi-fluid materials.
 15. The methodof claim 14, further comprising: applying a lid to close the topopening.
 16. The method of claim 12, wherein the first semi-fluidmaterial is a first ice cream flavor.
 17. The method of claim 13,wherein the second semi-fluid material is a second ice cream flavor. 18.The method of claim 11, further comprising: adhering a plurality ofdividers in a spaced apart relation to define a plurality ofcompartments.
 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising: fillingeach of the plurality of compartments with a dissimilar semi-fluidmaterial.